Brazil legend Pele has died at the age of 82

taketonews

Was diagnosed with colon cancer

One of the greatest footballers of all time is dead: Pelé passed away on Thursday at the age of 82. After long treatment, the Brazilian legend succumbed to cancer, according to the Albert Einstein Hospital in São Paulo.

“Inspiration and love shaped the path of King Pelé, who passed away peacefully today. Love, love and love forever,” was also announced through his social media channels. “Everything we are we owe to you,” wrote Pelé’s daughter Kely do Nascimiento on Instagram. “We love you infinitely, rest in peace.” The “king” (“O Rei”) of his sport has had to go to the hospital in São Paulo again and again in the recent past.

The official cause of death, according to the hospital, was multiple organ failure as a result of the progression of colon cancer related to his previous illness. The hospital expressed its solidarity with the family and all those suffering the loss. The Brazilian football association CBF published a photo of “King Pelé” on Twitter. “Forever” was written above the legend’s portrait in black and white.

Recently, Pelé’s health had continued to deteriorate. According to media reports, the chemotherapy had no longer worked. His daughter then initially announced that only her father’s medication would be adjusted. The hospital said in early December that Pelé had full control over his vital functions and was in stable clinical condition.

But the newspaper “Folha de S. Paulo” reported that Pelé no longer responded to chemotherapy. Accordingly, cancer treatment in the Albert Einstein Hospital in São Paulo has been suspended, and Pelé is only receiving palliative care.

On the Wednesday before Christmas Eve, the hospital said Pele’s cancer was progressing and required more intensive care due to kidney and heart problems. Two days later, his daughter posted a photo of her father in bed, both embracing. Among other things, she wrote on Instagram: “One more night together.”

Pelé has also had hip problems and problems with his spine and knees in the past. A kidney stone was removed after a urinary tract infection. During a routine examination in 2021, the doctors finally discovered a tumor on the colon, which was removed in late summer.

Édson Arantes do Nascimento, as the striker was called by his full name, shaped football like no other. Pelé was already a legend in his lifetime. The world governing body FIFA had named him – like the Argentinian Diego Maradona – the “Player of the 20th Century”. With 77 goals in 92 international matches, Pelé is still the Seleção’s record goalscorer. Pelé leaves behind seven children and his wife Márcia Cibele Aoki.

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